{re-post} When it is in your power to act...

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Yesterday, while reading my devotions, out of Proverbs chapter 3, I found a verse that got me to thinking. Actually, it's a couple of verses that have grabbed my attention before and it all came rushing back - afresh!

"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act. 

 Do not say to your neighbor, 'Come back later, I'll give it tomorrow', when you now have it with you." ~ Proverbs 3:27-28

  We all have it within us (those of us who are children of God, because of the Holy Spirit residing in us) to be faithful encouragers, not just sometimes, but always,  to our fellow brothers and sisters in the Lord.  I know how it is.  I want to send someone a note to let them know I've been thinking about them or praying for them, and life happens. The "to do" list is already rather long.  I quickly forget or get distracted.  Maybe it's pure procrastination - by simply saying, "Oh, I'll do that tomorrow". 

We all know a timely word or deed when it comes.  We have had it happen to us. Right??   Someone shared specifically to our need.  Whoever offered that "word" or deed was faithful.  They did not withhold... it was within their power to act...they had it and gave it - NOW!

Be encouraged.  But, what about you?  Are there specific things you've been meaning to follow through on and/or to act upon.  The Scripture is clear in asking us to determine to withhold nothing, especially when we have the power to act and accomplish something good.  We just need to do it.

Here are a few ways that I thought of to better communicate God's grace to others, and, for doing this myself (because I am preaching to the choir, here):

• 
  
  send that handwritten Thank-You, Thinking of You, appreciation, or encouragement note
• 
  
  give a (sincere) compliment - just because
• 
  
  a friendly wave of hello
• 
  
  a gift or gift card/basket (let your imagination go wild on this one)
• 
  
  a home-cooked meal (or at least a hot meal)
• doing something random and anonymously as a simple act of kindness
• a phone call

MAYBE- just maybe it's also a step in this direction; to extend forgiveness to someone who has sinned against us and maybe it just means taking that first step towards reconciliation towards that person.

There are boundless ways to show God's grace through forms of hospitality (because this is really what this is all about).  I like what these two verses have to say about this as well.

" Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers". ~Galatians 6: 9-10

I know me.  I have many, many days when I don't feel like it.  I have nothing left to give.  And, I am sure you have those kinds of days, too.  If we don't give up... we will reap a harvest.  I love that.  Sometimes it's not about us,...but we're just meant to be faithful...as encouragers. Doing good.  It's kind of like the rushing river in the picture above.  Our lives are to be that constant flow, that rush, that source of refreshment... we're forever connecting with people in ways that we have no idea how we truly affect them.

The end result of "doing good" may never be known to us here on this earth.  Are we really refreshing others, though?  That is the question.

: : Have I encouraged you, today?  If so, find a simple and tangible way to pass it on to someone else.

 It's in your power to do so... so, go ahead. Don't wait until tomorrow.

Of course, please feel free to leave a thought or comment on how you have been a recipient of a timely word or deed. And, how did that have an affect on you?

It really IS a special time!!

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Talk about cultivating relationships - let's start with one way it gets played out at home.  So, this has been (obviously) going on for awhile, now, but... it makes we wonder what "people" think (neighbors, etc.) - and yet, quite frankly, I don't care.  We've been doing this sort of thing since each of our kiddo's first days of school. 

It came to mind the other morning while waiting for the Big Yellow 29 - and I'm out on the porch with my son.  He's twelve.  It was cold.  Like... r e a l l y COLD! outdoors - and I started to do what are something that resembled (ahem!) jumping jacks... just to try to keep warm. And.. this is what I hear.

"Mom! - YOU'RE EMBARRASSING ME!"

Really?!?!!  I laughed a little.  Thinking here he is - here we are.  From day one of school mornings waiting for the bus... either I'm here or it's my hubby.  Sometimes it is both of us.  Often, just one. Mostly, just me.

Here's the thing.  I'm pretty much 100% positive - while it may "LOOK LIKE" an overprotective parent hanging out - watching every little thing... that there are kids looking on from inside the bus - wishing it was their mamma who was the one who just took 5-7 minutes outdoors, with them.

It is really is a special time.

This is when - prayers get prayed.  Hugs are given.  A listening ear is offered. Maybe a verse or two from Scripture is shared.  A song.  A ditty...a laugh.  A simple conversation.  And... even a kiss on the forehead with that one last affirmation getting shared.   

Yes!! It really is a special time.  And... while that time may be fleeting.  I'm still going to be there - as long as I'm able.  I don't know that there are too many others who still choose or who are able to enjoy these types of moments with their growing kids.

I hope my kids will remember, these times.  I truly hope they choose to cherish these memories as much as I do and will.

** These verses from Ephesians 3:17-19, are my prayer - for my three beautiful blessings!

Never lose the wonder...

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Being drawn outdoors, this morning, from looking out the kitchen window, I knew I wanted to capture the beauty that was quietly "landing"... and, I almost landed myself.  On my backside.  I didn't.  Thank goodness.  But, it was close.  Icy back decks and bedroom slippers don't mix, too well.    BUT.

In other ways... adventure isn't really that unless there is that step to the unknown and with it, there is a "falling" that takes place.  It's the only way to really "take it all in" what just happened. 

Think about it.  Babies just don't wake up one day and start walking.  There is a desire that is taking place, in their little hearts and minds, to learn to walk.  They're watching.  They're waiting... and as things progress...as they are growing... the desire and the will to try is growing and getting stronger.   They start by assuming position.  Their little knees are wobbly and shaking.  They teeter, they tip...they plop.  GUESS WHAT!??!!   They get back up again.  ** And, they have cheerleaders (a circle of Encouragers) along the way.  Very important!!

Adventure awaits.  Falling down is a repeated part of the process.   The question is - are we ready and able to get back up again.

***
I'm not sure why all of this, this morning.  It is just that "adventure" and "conditions" and "outcomes" are always par for the course.  The process by which we all are in - whether we like it or not.

Here are instructions for life: 
1. Pay attention
2. Be astonished
3. Tell about it
~as shared, by Mary Oliver

I do think of a verse in Scripture... Galatians 6:9... that reads.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a
 harvest if we do not give up.
***
Here is to the rest of your week and that you will never lose the wonder of the season!!

Drip. Drip. Drip...FULL and Overflowing!

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I have the wonderful privilege of reading to my growing kiddos each morning before school - and this particular morning's reading was all about kindnesses and I immediately thought of a book that they all three read and learned about in school - in their early years!!  And.. I remember doing a post on it - so HERE that one is.   You have to read it - in fact, I CANNOT wait to share this same post with my kids later this afternoon or evening. 

 We NEED the reminder.

WOW!

Okay.

So, this reading this morning from The Life of Samuel Johnson in The Book of Virtues (p. 329) ... is talking about kindnesses shown and keeping our friendships in constant repair.   Here is what else I read:

We cannot tell the precise moment when friendship is formed.  As in filling a vessel drop by drop, there is at last a drop which makes it run over; so in a series of kindnesses there at last one which makes the heart run over.

~~

It's a thought that is very much on my heart and mind.  As our lives ebb and flow and changes come and go - that ultimately bring about a change in our relationships... it is a real challenge to maintain some of those friendships.   And.. yet.  We NEED to keep adding to our friendships or soon we'll have none.  Am I right?

I'm so grateful for the many lovely friends that fill my cup!!  Not to mention, my Lord and Savior. He is the source of it all.

And so... as I keep the constant repair happening... tending to the drip by drip of filling another's heart-vessel with kindnesses - then my saucer will be filled, as well, full and overflowing.

Because, paraphrasing from Luke 6:45, out the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.  

I may venture to say it is the only time I care to be known as a "constant drip"... if you know what I mean.   Think about it!   What an opportunity to be a slow and steady blessing, one drip at a time, in someone's life... that at some point... is when their heart is full and BOOM!!  that bucket is filled to the top and overflowing. 

Live Beautifully!

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Let me live in my house by the side of the road
 and be a friend to man...
 ~ Sam Walter Foss

How are those things you are grateful for - coming along?  Mine are slowly being penciled in, in this journal of mine.  I cannot say that I have listed each and every single day - since mentioning it here.. but, let me tell you.  My attitude has been of gratitude... because, I'm truly grateful.

Today it is for:
* first snowflakes - flitting through the air
* the smell of apples - so pungent
* the sip of a hot beverage or two on this cozy day
(Yes! I've had more than one.)

***
Had a chance to read a poem to my kiddos this morning, before school.  It comes from The Book of Virtues.  A book we've been reading from  - pretty near - each morning, that we can.

This poem, by New England poet, Sam Walter Foss, brings to light a picture of a humble house where a weary traveler may find a warm and hospitable welcome.  It's entitled:  The House By The Side of the Road.  I'll let you look up to read for yourself.  (it's worth it!)

And, it brought on the discussion, around the breakfast table - how as siblings; friends, neighbors...etc.  We all are a representation of a "house" - by the side of the road.  Cheering on, sharing the load, bringing on the encouragement that is needed... to one another.   Friends are to be the "help-meets" to one another.  In talking... I borrowed from an old blog post of mine (because, I think of this often, still!) - a few thoughts, as I shared with my kiddos, - about the fact that because we have Jesus in our hearts - our "house" should have obvious glowing windows.   In other words... live beautifully.

You can read that post HERE!!!

***
I don't know.  I feel kind of like a bit of a rambler here, but....I hope you were blessed. I hope you go and read that "old blog post" of mine.  I hope you were also (perhaps) challenged...

Live Beautifully.

Kindness really matters!

Oh my word.  I don't blame a single soul for falling off "my bandwagon" - here at Treasured Up and Pondered.  In fact, if you are reading this... I'm impressed.  Because, I've fallen off... as well.  Obviously.

So, for that... dear friend and reader...I say, if you're here and still "desiring to hear" anything from me - I say THANK YOU!   Yes, thank you for your kindness.... and your patience ... and your prayers.   Please feel my {hugs} and see my smiles...

Truth is.  Our plates are full.   I don't like to say we've been busy - because everyone is and can be "busy". Instead of busy I'll refer to it as - we've been "investing" ourselves into lots of different areas...

We're wrapping up the school year, with the kiddos, in just a few more short weeks.   My husband has also recently finished up a 15-month stent on taking up some Theological studies... he graduates, here, in early June.  His desire in this course has been for himself to grow - as a husband, a father, a leader, a friend; a way to better connect all the dots.  I think he's really grateful and blessed to have gone through this course.  I'm glad he did it and stuck to it.

Our home-based business continues to keep us on our toes... with its highs and lows.  All is fine!!  We continue to learn; grow ourselves as better individuals and leaders...we still LOVE what we do and what it is all about and why.  It's been life-changing, for us!!
We're always willing to share with others - a better way!!  Health and happiness is everyone's hope!!!

Church life is full of changes and challenges.  There are lots of things to be a part of...and areas to serve and mature in.   We don't live super close to our church, anymore - so there is that distance factor that plays a part in how much we can logistically be involved.  We're so grateful to have a wonderful church family...who understands and still encourages us! 
Something to keep in mind.  It really does matter how much you offer in as to what you you'll receive out of church.  There is no perfect situation.... BUT GOD!!! 

One of our most recent endeavors has been the invite to join a family/friends, of ours, in Revolutionary War reenactments.   This is mostly on account of our 11 yr old son.  His passion is beautiful combo of history and music.  So his role, in this "new hobby of ours" is an acting hornist for this particular regime; while the rest of us consider ourselves as camp followers or sutlers.    Doing this as a family allows us all to be involved; all going the same direction - with activities and such.   So far it has been a process; keeping to authenticity is very vital.  I really appreciate learning and understanding all of this.  It really has been fascinating.    How do I mean?    I've been helping to do the sewing for a lot of our 18th century garb.  Any visible seam needs to be hand-sown.  But, not only that... the cloth needs to be 100% wool or linen or cotton.  Only certain colors are of the time period...
So, there are lots of things to learn and lots of events to participate in - and new and interesting people to get to know.   ** I realize, I really should do some posts, with photos, on these, in effort to better preserve our memories - that we've been making as a family.

What else?

Of course - we're gearing up for summer and all its activities. Hoping for a couple of trips... one business related the other a family vacation.
We're also honing in on a few lingering house projects.... such as settling our side flower bed, putting up a washline (I cannot believe I've gone this long with out one! - kinda driving me cray-cray!!) and hopefully getting an outbuilding shed type thingy.   I'm sure there is a longer list...

My hubby and I just celebrated our 14th Wedding Anniversary!!  Yay!!!   Looking forward to forever...

Our son - is getting soooooo tall.  AND, his voice is deepening every. single. day.   It's so crazy how fast they change.  Caught in that place of wanting to still play with matchbox cars and nerf guns while busting out of shoes and his clothes - like a young man, should!!
Oh - and our two girls (ages 10 and 7) both donated 12" of hair.  Their first time of EVER getting their hair cut... even trimmed.  So, of course, the gal probably took a total of 14", till it was all said and done....
I was proud of them.  Of course, this mama shed a tear ever so slightly.  I thought I'd tear up more.  I am sure it was because we talked about long and hard enough to finally just "do it".   Right?   They still have pretty long hair and could almost go for a "round-two" already... but, they don't want it any shorter, at this point. 

***
 Why all this ramble?   I have no idea -- other than, I just needed to get it all out there - as a way to play catch up. Get my fingers back to the keyboard.  I've really missed it.   This quiet, reflective space...   

I will say.  I was having a chat with my 10 year old, this morning.  She "unloaded" it all... the tears were flowing and I was holding her and listening.  The things she shared were real, and raw; things I could easily relate to - as I've been there myself, many times.     One of things I shared, with her,  in return, is that as you grow into a young woman - you will find that this may happen again - over and over and over again!   Relationships and friendships will come and go.  Being kind through them all speaks volumes.  But, yes!  There is what feels like a footprint left on your heart.  Sometimes it hurts.  Sometimes it really leaves an impression.  Sometimes that is all that it is... but sometimes... its meant to be blessing!!!

May someone's kindness towards you - leave an impression - today!!   How about you - for someone else...okay?  It really matters.  I pray my daughter shines like the sun, today!!!

fmf | search

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Someone near and dear to me (and, I won't mention names) is on a quest...to actually hear GOD's voice.  They're discouraged and sad that it so far isn't or hasn't been an audible voice for them.  Whenever, we get to connect about it - we try to encourage but with futile words, because even ours won't readily be heard.  We say - "Sometimes, you have to be still (quiet!) and then you will know - God." (Psalm 46:10)

We remind.  "Look at answers, to prayers, you do have - though they've come circumstantially... - they're still answers."

Apparently, that isn't an audible voice; its not enough!

God's voice isn't always clear, is it?  We have his WORD, right, and, we need to pray and ask to have the eyes of our heart, opened, to see clearly.  I talk with my kiddo's quite often (in fact, AGAIN just this morning!) - about the fact that they need to look at me when I am talking to them.  That they will be able to hear me better when they keep their eyes fixed on my face.   Surprise!!!!!

Imagine - the connection that would happen!!!

Jeremiah 29:13

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all of your heart. 

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday Community today - today's word prompt is: search

fmf | Build

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This prompt word is very interesting.  The other day - my son was working through an assignment for school and it involved a mathematical situation.  The only way to really have him "get it" was to imagine building a house.  We used this analogy and it didn't take him long to get this math problem figured out - correctly. When he saw the way it was originally "figured"... he could truly see the error and KNEW this figurative building wasn't going to work...as it was.

Do we really know what we're working with when we go to build - anything?  Relationships.  A home! Getting a business up off the ground and running.

There is something to be said - in going back and taking a second look as to what you have before you.  Is it a right fit?  Is it coming together - as expected?  Are the others in your "one-anothering" feeling the same connectiveness and commonalities that you feel about them? 
If not.  What needs to change?
When we say we want to "build" something. 
The groundwork being laid - needs to be solid and sure.

You may have heard the phrase... Don't throw your pearls before swine.  Well, what in the world does that even mean?  Right?  Pearls are something of great value.  Swine or a herd of pigs - don't typically care about such things of value. They would, by nature, trample them underfoot and move on.

I've been pondering... about how it looks to or what it means to add value to others.  I want to build a happy and health home (Proverbs 14:1, Proverbs 24:3-4).  My Marriage matters...
Apart from Christ... homes and marriages can falter.   Building up an emergency fund or even our simple bank accounts takes diligence and sometimes sacrifice.   A business will only built if its foundation is secure.  Dreams are great!  But...aren't they only "fluff" without the sweat, grit and tears.

Sometimes.  Building relationships means a simple investment...of time and thoughtfulness.  Maybe MORE than what has already been given.  It may mean more hugs.  A correction.  A listening ear.  A deeper/fuller smile.  A serious question...
Time... putting aside the "me and my wants" for the other.

Something to think about today.

Here is a playdough house that one of my kiddos' made along time ago.  Got love the heart inside the house.

***

Joining with the Five Minute Friday - Writing Community.  This word prompt is: Build

fmf | with

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Emmanuel - God with us!

I may have shared this thought here before but it bears repeating... 

"When you're not with someone - you're at them."

Jesus alludes to this in Scripture... (I'll have to go look it up again) but, how true!  Right?  Christmas is here -- and while a wonderful time of year, it also can be quite stressful.  I know, our home - has felt that. Let me be a bit vulnerable here and share... the stress of schedules, studying for tests, work related issues, meal prep and all the other household things that need tending to can really play a toll.  One of our biggest stressers gets revealed when early mornings come and we're getting the kids up and at em - for school.  There are distractions by books and papers, toys and even each other.  If we get up "too late"... then that puts on the crunch for everything.  And, you've got one - who doesn't know what to wear, the other who is "so cozy"...and, "can't get up!!"...  "can't find my shoes"... and because of feeling the pressure... the clock ticking FAST... panic sets in.   And, Mamma... well, Mamma's voice isn't so quiet anymore.

Right??  All the things.   

So, recently... I was thinking about this.  Why do we have this kind of tipping-point stress in our lives? I do believe it comes down to the whole thing of not being WITH people (our hearts are not united) and so we're AT each other.  When and where we're at each other "throats"... loud.  Hurtful.  Always "picking a fight", trying to better ourselves - one-upping another instead of building each other up...

This is why Jesus came.  To unite our hearts.  To beat as one.  TO CONNECT.  Built together to keep each other strong.   These fence posts do no good all piled up on one another.  But... unless they're positioned in, with and for each other... does it make an impact.

We've been working on.  Whispers.  Warm hugs.  Well-wishes.  Being amazed... and encouraging each other instead of critiquing, complaining and conjuring up "trouble".

I have to tell you.  This morning!  I was joking with my kiddos... that it MUST be that Christmas is coming, or something!!!!   I mean, it felt like such a gift.   EVERYONE... was up... on their own.  Got dressed...on their own. Hair done and combed...on their own.  EARLY - before time.  ALL was quiet and calm - working together - as if they were excited about their half-day, last day before Christmas vacation begins.

Jesus was WITH us!  

He still is, and always will be!!

**
Joining with Five Minute Friday... a community of writers, taking a word prompt and sharing their thoughts.  Today's prompt was: With

adding value

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How you do anything is how you do everything.

~

This statement sucker punches me.  Oh, it don't take much.  All I have to do is to look around, my home, my "office", my gardening... and such...and see what all it is I don't do ... and for whatever reason - that is all that I hear.   The negative side of those words.  The connotation that I don't do anything well.

Letting these words sink in a bit...

I'm coming to terms that if I'm not impressed with my "anything"... its time to make me some changes.

However... the greater word, I need to hear and or preach to myself... is GRACE!!!

Grace doesn't mean that you give up caring...

Grace doesn't meant that you give up, as in- "oh well".

Grace means... to see the changes that you are doing; that they are better than before.  By degrees, we see that there are changes happening and we celebrate.

I will allow the phrase ,"how I do anything is how I do everything", to challenge me and convict me to change...allowing growth.

Why did I title this post - adding value?

Adding value in this case simply encourages my heart.  It is something I've been pondering, here of late.   Its an area where I want to grow.  To add value to others. Adding value whenever we meet, whenever we chat... whenever we're together.  And... I believe...it starts with me; with myself. If I want to be a better friend and to in turn feel valued by others... than I need to start by doing.  I go about with that thought in mind... How can I add value to this person that I'm about to encounter?  

I start by a simple smile and an encouraging word - maybe even throw in a hug or two.  I don't know that it will always be received and that is on that person... but somehow I believe I can make a difference.  

How I do anything... a simple smile and encouraging word, even to myself... is how I do everything... a contagious expression of a heart at peace and full of joy - will then extend and be a blessing to others.

May you have a blessed day!!

** updated to add that I recently included this post to the Five Minute Friday linkup:  The prompt word was Value.

{re post} The Day My Sister Pretty Much Saved My Life.

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Photo courtesy of my Sister Lorene!

On hot days like these last few have been - I think of water.  Naturally.  However, I must be true and say that I do not like to go swimming.  At least, this: Don't make me go under water if I don't have to.  I've had one too many close calls...

Today, I shall tell you about one of them. As, I have once promised, a long time ago...oops! 

A couple of years ago, now, we were at our usual Summer Vacay place - a cabin ~ Dutchman's Paradise ~ that we as a family have gone to pretty much since I was two years of age.  The one small river nearby, similar to this above photo, was pretty full that year.  It made great the idea for going tubing.  There was a small group of us.  Myself, my Uncle Roy (who has since passed on), my sister Lorene, and another cousin or two.  We started out from the one bridge, about 3 miles down the road from our cabin, and our plan was to go on downstream, over to the next road where we would get picked up via a vehicle to come on back to the cabin.  This was probably a two mile tubing trip - I would guess..

Keep in mind,  I was newly married at the time.  My husband had just left, that morning, to get back on the road.  (At the time, he was a Truck Driver). We had just said our Good-byes.  This "day of fun", here at the cabin was just getting started, for everyone...

Our little group.  We were off ... happily aboard our tubes; we set sail.  Lollygagging downstream...it was a beautiful morning, a lovely scenic float all along the way..trees on all sides.  Parts of the river were shaded, water sounds rippling over rocks and the birds singing made it even more peaceful.  I loved it!

This was the day my sister (Lorene) pretty much saved my life.  And, I'm forever grateful.

The group was ahead of me.  I saw the way the river was looking... coming up.  One side was pretty shallow, the other side nice, deep(er) and running pretty good.  It had rounded a bend and the other tubers were soon outta sight.  My turn.

As I was going toward this faster water coming up... I "planned" my maneuvers through there, so I thought.  It looked like a HUGE tree must have uprooted itself over onto the bank and all of it's root system was exposed..I figured I would maybe bump into that, twirl around and keep on floating downstream...naturally, going with the flow.

Except that I hit that root system pretty hard.  I flipped off my tube and could feel nothing below me, around me, above me. I was in a major whirlpool...twirling and swirling... my arm was stretched as far it could go above me.  I came up chocking and sputtering and (I still) absolutely cannot believe it to this day that my glasses stayed on my face. I reached out and found a root to hang onto... and hang on I did!!   While in that churning water - my life was going before me... my newly wedded husband off in a truck somewhere... I was praying... Lord, Jesus!  Help me!  I just knew I was...I WAS GOING TO DIE!!!  I remember telling myself over and over to "not panic" and to keep calm.  To deep breathe.. and to continue praying..

From my sister's point of view at this point   My tube came around the bend, but I wasn't on it.  She leaped into action.  I guess the others had kinda all gotten back over onto that shallow area and stopped to take a break.  Because they, too had just come through that "FAST and FURIOUS" area.. 

All I can remember is hearing my name being called, repeatedly and intensely; telling me to let go and grab the tube!!!   Little did I know that she was in the water herself, at this point - not being able to touch bottom.  Her "screaming" at me - snapped me enough to where I literally had to decide to let go of the root I was hanging onto (for dear life) and grab the tube she was holding out to me.  That right there was probably one of the most important decisions of my life where I HAD TO CHOOSE who or what to trust in, in that moment.

I let go.

I grabbed the tube and she miraculously pulled me out of that torrential whirlpool... My Uncle was now in the wings.  I think I sat there on that stony bank - opposite of the river - for a long while.   The problem was.  We were what? two hours into our float? We HAD TO FINISH.  People were waiting for us - or would be, at least.  And, THERE was NO WAY I could walk anywhere.  This was in the middle of absolute nowhere.  Literally.  I had to face it and keep going.

The rest of the 2 hours, floating downstream, was pretty non-eventful.  Thank God!  And beautiful...I truly was one Grateful Soul.. that my sister had presence of mind in knowing what to do in that moment.  The Lord was with us, for sure that morning.

My nose still burns of water, in the memory...

One of the funny things of that morning is that I can distinctly remember my Mom - jokingly, looking my way, while holding out a yellow rope, and saying something about, "Are you sure you don't want to have this along with you, while your tubing?".  I remember kinda blowing her off - as if to the fact that we would be fine..
Little did I know ... it would be me who needed it.

I guess that isn't very funny.  But we could have used the rope, too!  I suppose.

I just know this one thing, for sure.  You probably won't ever find me out there tubing again.  At least at this point - I don't think so. 

Unless...of two things.  One, my sister must be along and two, we take along a strong yellow rope!  haha..

This incident  and neardeath experience aside... I really did enjoy myself.



::  This photo is not of where this actually took place.

***
There are so many things I could pull from this.  So many analogies.. but I think if you read in between the lines, you know what they are.

What are your thoughts?? 

fmf :: stuck

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Stuck.   Not a favorite word of mine - nor one I use very often.  But, I do admit to feeling this way at times.  As thought about how I might use this word... as part of this five minute prompt - so many thoughts came rushing to mind.  I will simply set the timer aside and just write from the heart, today!

If you have been reading along, here at Treasured Up and Pondered, you've seen my straggly posts...here and there.  At least, as of late, these "few and far between posts" have been along the lines of growing and growth, etc.  I truly appreciate your sense of commitment to reading and following along.  Oh, it blesses me - even though I have not been as fluent or as fluid as I'd like to be, for you.

However, in the past, I have written "extensively", and often, on the topic of encouragement and blessing others -using our words of affirmation, hand-written notes or letters; coffee dates and connection one on one.  Simply because it is a subject so dear to me. It is truly something my heart CRAVES. 
My latest mantra - I've said to myself and am "committed" to doing - is to phone a friend at ten.  It's been working.  Whether I follow through, daily, or not.  I have succeeded in, at least, thinking of someone - at that time of day - and, at best, prayed for them. 
Sometimes a phone call gets made.  Sometimes it is a hand written note.

Simple. Simple. Simple. 

Yet.  How does this all tie in to the word stuck?

I am learning something.

And, Scripture is clear.  In order to have friends - you have to show yourself friendly.  I totally paraphrased that...but it is found in Proverbs chapter 18, I believe.  This doesn't come easy for everyone.  And, I am one of those persons.  I have to work on blessing others... it is a true struggle.

However, I believe some really awesome things about people - but they haven't heard it from me - yet.  Its time to change that.

There is a saying that says.  If you've been blessed, be a blessing!!

Well.  I want that to evident, in my life.

I'm going to take the rock that was once stuck in the mud and toss it into the lake.

You watch.  There will be a ripple effect that happens.  You'll see.

 I have yet another experiment brewing in my heart.  I don't know if I want to share out loud, yet, or not.  But, you watch.  If it comes your way... pass it on!!  Okay?  deal!!

Here is where the inspiration comes from.

Proverbs 3:27-28

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due,
    when it is in your power to act.  Do not say to your neighbor,
    “Come back tomorrow and I’ll give it to you”—
    when you already have it with you.

***

Determine to withhold nothing!!

Praise * Encouragement * Thanks * a Greeting*

Kindness * Good Deeds * Note of appreciation

I believe when we choose to honor others above ourselves.  It produces a spirit of humility.  A spirit of loveliness.  A spirit of generosity.  A spirit of genuine - heart felt - connection.  

I want this!!  Don't you??

~Tagging along on with Five Minute Friday, today.  The prompt word, obviously, is: stuck!  FMF is a great blogging community - to plug into.  I suggest checking it out.

 

Are you feeling stuck, today?  - Pick yourself up and get out there!!

 

fmf link up :: tired

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A bicycle can't stand alone; it is two tired.

I know that is meant to be a funny.  And, it is.

I immediately saw this word prompt and thought of this photo I had taken from a couple of snows ago - and decided to use this "play on words", with this word, for the Five Minute Friday.  Tired.

Forgive me, but I do think I can pull this all together.  :)

 So... I can relate to this bicycle sitting in between these other two bikes.  It looks like it's lost its footing.  It's balance.  It looks "tired".  Weighed down by the weight of the snow or maybe the wind toppled it - whatever happened.  I can relate.

I need others to keep me upright.   I can't stand alone.  Or, at least, I need them to stand by to keep me from truly falling.

We're never meant to be alone, the Bible says.

I have been really pondering the strength and beauty of relationships...and how we need one another.  I'll admit there are times... I would rather have the peace and quiet...no one needing me for anything.  No one demanding my attention.   But - at the end of the day.  It is super nice to feel supported and "needed".  We need the strength that Jesus and others provide.

- joining in for Five Minute Friday - taking just five minutes and writing 

whatever comes to mind, on the given word prompt.

phone a friend at ten :: cultivating friendship

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One of the ways I've purposed to grow in, this year, was in and with a heart of contentment.  And, in particular, the area of friendships and relationships.  I have many friends, oh yes! I have many... but I'm not overly impressed with how these friendships are maintained. (This is all on my end, by the way!)
So, in other words.  This idea of wanting to grow in contentment has rather uprooted some feelings in my heart of discouragement... and loneliness.
 Sad, but true!

It's all on me.  I know it matters in how I nurture and care for the friendships I have.  Again, with so many... where do I start?  And, with me being the loyal soul that I am... I'm struggling.
Struggling to keep up...
Please hear my heart... I'm certainly not complaining.  I'm curious, rather, in how to nurture those that are most important and how to nurture that level of influence with those that are mere acquaintance.  I share all of this - because of similar, recent conversations with my two girls.  Friendships are valuable and so important - especially as family.  Yet, these can be the hardest...

Interestingly... by leaps and bounds... many MORE relationships have come into my life, over the past couple of years, which has been phenomenal.  So, when I stop to think about just how many people I daily get to rub shoulders with - beings I'm a stay-at-home, work-from-home mom, at that - I'm amazed!!!  But, truthfully... they're surface friendships.  They're not deep. Yet, these are good, too! (sigh!) 

Recently, an online facebook friend was sharing how she loves to send and receive snail mail.
SO DO I!!
The thing is... she has done something about it.
It's incredible.  We exchanged addresses the other day, and BOOM!  A letter/card showed up in the mail.  And, it truly brought a smile to my face. :)  This is simple. This is one way to build and grow relationships.
 I do this, too.. I regret to say it has been awhile, this whole thing of sending cards. Why have I gotten away from it?   There was a time when I used to send cards and notes more than have recently.   I know this isn't a new topic.  I have shared about this before.  But, I'd venture to say - I am not alone in this.   We're human creatures who crave for longing and connection.  I'm not the only one who feels a sense of "lost and lonely"... and who flits around like a dragonfly atop the pond of friendship never sure where to land and enjoy!!  I appreciate this new friend's initiative to cultivate relationship.  Sending out a thoughtful card is truly one way to do it... especially from one stay-at-home mama, to another.  We all need encouragement.  We all need love and care.  We all need reminders of God's love for us!!

Interestingly, this has been a deep, resounding prayer of mine - since relocating.   Would new friendships come about in this new chapter of my life?  (The answer is: they are!  They have!)
What's that little adage:  Make new friends but keep the old.  Some are silver and the other gold?

Well, here is another thing - to add to my list of intention.  I've come up with an idea...
I don't know what to call it... it's just a thing... to keep my self accountable, but it's this little adage to say..."phone a friend at ten".   Meaning, taking the time - around 10 am, every day or there about - (when I'm most available) during my day, to make a short and courteous phone call... whether the person answers or not... to just simply say "hello" and to let them know I've been thinking about them.

This is a ministry.  Another area of growth for me!

Cultivating Friendship!!
~~~
What is it?  How do you nurture and grow friendships?  Or, raise your hand.  If you're like me and want to grow and nurture the friendships that you've been given... How can I encourage you?

To have a friend is to be blessed!

Dusty Paths

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This morning I was writing out a note of encouragement to a friend of mine.  Her daughter and mine are pretty near the same age and Aubrey wanted to bless her friend with a note - to Get Well!

Broken bones are no fun!

I got to thinking about how often this friend and her family - in their own quiet way - are the best and I mean THE BEST homemade card makers and they're always filled with lots of love and encouragement.  I mean, ALWAYS!

I don't know how many times we've received a thick packet in the mail... from this dear family.  "Just because" or truly because we were walking through something...hard to go through.

They have their own moments and hard times and I (honestly!) don't know that I have been as faithful.

While thoughts came to mind as I wrote this note this morning... "dusty paths" came to the forefront.  Wanting to acknowledge their time of  "difficulty".   A daughter; arm recently "casted", as well as  a job that is over the top stressful... well, I can only imagine.... I know it's been really rough right now, for the husband.

Things. Many more things could be mentioned - that they as a family are going through.

And, while we know God walks these paths before us, beside us and behind...

These paths, they feel dusty!

That's what I wrote.  Acknowledging their "dusty paths"... ways that don't seem clear.  Or, paths that are not filled with ease.  Certainly, not flower strewn pathways.. but in them... there is good!

I miss our old home and farmstead... its part of my own "dusty path".

And again. We walk these paths one foot in front of the other... knowing, God is holding our hand.   Confident he has a plan that far exceeds our own.   I'm encouraged in Scripture... these words of reminder.

 This is what the Lord says:

“Stand at the crossroads and look;

    ask for the ancient paths,

ask where the good way is, and walk in it,

    and you will find rest for your souls.  ~
Jeremiah 6:16

Beyond Blessed

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This blank page is staring at me and scaring me.   It's been so long.

I never, never, EVER intended for it to be this long - to come back here and to give you all the updates you are probably longing to hear.

Treasured Up and Pondered.

This space.

This blog.

This everything about this thing is rusty!!

I'm rusty.

I don't even know what to say.

One.  We've officially moved - from the farm!!  We moved our home location on June 16th, 2017.

So, the photos will be of new caliber!

 The thoughts, the ideas... those may be new too!?!?!

But our hearts and "home" will always be the same.

The evening prior to our move... I was involved in a semi-serious car accident.  My girls were with me.  Everyone was okay, my girls especially (which I'm so grateful) - and even the other driver!

I, however, suffered a fractured sternum and a very, very bruised/sprained ankle.  Lots and lots of bruises.   It truly could have been much, much worse.

I'm grateful that we're here... healing...together.

To this... I must say.  I have seen and felt the hands and feet of Jesus in ways I haven't in awhile.

No fault of anyone's.  I just needed to see and feel that again (if you know what I mean?) ... I'm not sure how to say that, exactly, other than... its true!  It's been a real humble blessing to have meals, and help with cleaning and moving, childcare, packing and unpacking...etc. and one that I want to extend outward and onward (paying it forward!) even more.

We're settling in bit by bit.  Healing every day, bit by bit.

We're beyond blessed in so many ways!!!!

Grateful to Jesus for his sustaining grace and mercy on our lives.

For another day - granted - to let my/our life-story continue...

***

Please let me know if you're still out there!!  I would love to hear from you...

Message/email me - if you would care at all to have our *new* mailing address and contact information.

admitting an area of growth - for me

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--Sharing, an excerpt, from The Life Giving Home - by, Sally Clarkson.

"In taking time to build close relationships, we learn that people are more important than things or material possessions.  We come to understand that close relationships, not status or accomplishment or virtual realities, are what bring happiness and meaning to life.   Our lives become what we live and model, and when we invest personally in the lives of others, we will reap personally in terms of friendship and affection.  Even the way we use our time will help others know that building a relationship requires a commitment to time and sacrifice.

There is always a cost to building intimacy with others.   Giving comfort to one who is ill requires time and practical labor (attending to physical needs).  Listening to the feelings of a teen or young adult usually involves lost sleep because the deepest conversations take place at night.  Buying groceries, cooking meals, making cups of tea, providing snacks requires the sacrifice of time and energy.  Keeping house -- picking up those messes one more time -- is a service of worship to God as we craft a place of beauty and comfort for all who enter our sanctuary of His very presence.

Love is indeed a choice, an obedience, a service and a sacrifice, an initiation.  But love is also the most powerful source of joy.  And it is the means through which God would have us extend His hands, His words, His redemption to our world, within the walls of our home."

***

Wow!!  I admit.  This is certainly an area I'm continuing to grow in...

Oh, I'm so grateful to have been gifted this book!  Thank you, sweet friend.
You know who you are! :)

Be Different

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It's time for another analogy.  :)  I like these. I need the reminder just as much as anyone else.

Earlier this morning - I was hanging laundry on the line, and noticed the majority of my flower bed had succumbed to some hard times.  The recent frost got to them.  But, not the snapdragons.
They're still beautiful!!  Amazingly.

I wondered about it, for a moment.  And, quickly thought...
You know? I am like this flower...SURROUNDED by the dead and dying.
Hard times have hit and devastation is everywhere... Yet, I CAN still make a difference.  I WILL continue to bloom...offering HOPE; bringing life and light, when and wherever I can.  I WILL bloom where I'm planted and continue to make a difference (of influence) with whomever I come in contact with.  Whatever my sphere of influence is.  On the job, at home, out and about...

This is my prayer.  At least.

Look at that!  All around - is "darkness" and decay.  Yet, through the dismal, and in what looks like a war-zone, are those that stand firm.  Strong.  Alive.  Radient.  Ready to keep going..

So, WHO is my greatest example of this?  Jesus.  Like the lyric of the old hymn says; When all around my soul gives way... He then, is ALL my hope and stay.

What a blessed thought.  Amen?

Makes me wonder.  Do I have what it takes to stand out and be different?  Let alone, make a difference for the cause of Christ?  I SURE hope so.

Spread a little love and kindness

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You'll never change your life until you change something you do daily.  
The secret of your success is found in your daily routine.  
~ John C. Maxwell

***
Do you find this to be true for you?

I've been challenged to think on this in some simple, but practical ways..
Know your passions,
Be a helper.
Have Fun!!
Listen and Learn.

Reach out with a word of encouragement to family or friends.
Affirm
Hug a little tighter...
Sing along... or simply listen to uplifting, positive, encouraging music!
SMILE!
Try a new recipe!  Or, stick to what's comfortable... and keep everyone happy!
Make your bed every day!
Keep looking for ways to bless others... be attentive to their needs!

Be a Blessing!!
Spread a little bit of love and kindness

I happened to think of this upbeat song as I was writing here... I hope you enjoy!!
A perfect way to sign off on this post for today!!